The Pain McShlonkey Classic returns to Squaw Valley March 30. Now in its third year, this action packed on- and off-mountain event serves as a tribute to legendary skier Shane McConkey where the winner is crowned fastest snow blader on the planet.

Hosted by the Shane McConkey Foundation, the event has grown to be a highly successful fundraiser for local nonprofits. This year’s event will benefit Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Tahoe Truckee Unified School District’s environmental education programs.

The festivities begin that Saturday at 9am as athletes line up atop KT-22 chairlift for an all-out snowblade blitz. The pros will take on 30 amateurs in an anything-goes battle to the finish on Squaw’s GS Bowl, named for the original 1960 Olympic Giant Slalom course. Pros are invited to compete, while amateur contestants are selected by submitting their most embarrassing moment in an online contest.

Later, spectators gather below the outcroppings of Squaw’s Enchanted Forrest for the Extreme Snowblade Small Mountain Invitational.

The Shane McConkey Foundation encourages skiers, riders and resorts around the world to celebrate the spirit of McConkey during this weekend.

For event details, registration information, after party tickets or to make a donation to the Shane McConkey Foundation, go online.